Back with a bang

Coming back bigger and better than ever, The Edinburgh Mela returns to the capital for a brand new week-long stint this August.

Scotland’s leading celebration of cultural diversity through the arts has now been extended from a weekend event - and it’s no surprise, with so many new exciting and vibrant activities on offer.

In addition, as the festival is now based at a new outdoor venue beside Ocean Terminal, many events are outside, giving it a more summery feel.

Packed full of visual art, dance, theatre, food, fashion, film and discussion events – with a number of world, UK and Scottish premieres – there will be something to suit the whole family

Mela favourite, ladies-only night Sakhian, will kick off the festival, and will include a staged drama and a disco featuring Bhangra singer, Des-C, as well as food, jewellery and henna stalls.

And the Club Night, which will feature live DJs, internationally recognised producer Rishi Rich, and artists including Juggy D and Veronica, is set to be another highlight.

Dance will make up a large part of the Mela, with performances from the Glasgow Hong Lok Dragon and Lion Dancing Troupe, and Circus Re-mix, who will show off their mixed circus and hip-hop style.

And the little ones won’t be left out either - the Through the Forest section will be perfect for the under 5s, where a forest of enchantment and craft, sounds and dance, stories and art await them.

There is also a new film and theatre section this year, with highlights including the powerful production of Jihad: Inner Struggle, from Theatre Insaan.

Performers have travelled from as far afield as Africa, South America and India, so this year’s festival is certain to have a truly diverse, cultural feel to it – don’t miss it!

The Edinburgh Mela is being held in various locations beside the Ocean Terminal, and is running from August 24-31.